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He stood behind his cluttered desk, adjusting a row of folders on his bookcase. His black suitcase waited by the door. He’d be gone for five days. All he had told me about the trip was that he planned to visit the chairman with Veronica and her newborn child—the chairman’s grandson. He said he’d tell me more upon his return.
Neil turned at my approach. “Yes, Milly?”
I clasped my hands to keep from fidgeting. “I just wanted to double-check you have everything in order for your trip.”
“Thanks to the extensive packing list you prepared, I believe I’m accounted for on all fronts.”
I drifted closer. “Good. So… five whole days, huh?”
“You almost sound like you’ll miss me.”
“The office won’t feel the same without you.”
“I hope you’ll find ways to fill your time without me cracking the whip.”
I sidled a measured half step closer. “I’m sure I could find some trouble to get into.”
Neil’s face hovered inches from mine now, his voice dipping lower. “Just try not to burn the place down, will you?”
I chewed my lip. Neil tracked the movement like a man possessed.
“You’ll need to leave soon,” I said.
He checked his watch. “I still have a minute to spare.” He scanned the doorway, appeared satisfied the coast was clear, then turned back to me.
I froze as he inched nearer.
What is he doing? Is he actually going to break his rule? No, it can’t be.
I thought I must be mistaken right up until he inclined his head, his breath wisping along my cheek. My hands clenched at my sides, pulse thrumming as his mouth hovered over my skin. I squeezed my eyes shut, awaiting the firm press of his lips.
The floor creaked.
My eyes flew open, and Neil yanked himself away from me just as Petra appeared in the doorway.
How did she get back so fast? She didn’t see anything… did she?
Petra’s vacant eyes slid right over us. Her thin lips pressed into a flat line, arms locked in place at her sides. “Um, we’re out of printer toner. Do we have more stocked anywhere?”
I caught my breath before answering. “Check with James. He handles office supplies.”
“Ah, James. Got it.” She retreated.
I sagged, clutching my chest. It didn’t seem like she had noticed anything amiss.
Once we had recovered from the interruption, I braced for Neil’s next move. But the moment had passed. His buzzing phone diverted his attention. “Winston is waiting outside,” he said. “I should get going.”
I nodded. “Have a smooth flight.”
He glanced at the door again, then brought his hand up to briefly cup my cheek. “Thanks again for offering your pet-sitting services. They’ll be much more comfortable with you than a stranger.”
“It’s no problem, honestly. I’m happy to help.”
“I know they’ll be in good hands, but let me know if you have any issues at all.”
“I will. So…” I shuffled my feet, “you’ll be in touch?”
“Of course.”
